Are you looking for useful Florence travel tips? You are in the right place.
Florence is one of the most fascinating cities in Italy, filled with life, history, and stunning architecture. It is also one of the best places to visit in Tuscany. But it goes deeper than that — with incredible local food, friendly people, and a whole bunch of museums to explore, there’s always something to discover.
I have been to Florence countless times – in fact, more than I can remember. It’s easy to travel to Florence from Sardinia, so I go whenever I can (and I was there actually very recently). So, I have lots of Florence travel tips for you.
If you’re planning on visiting Florence, you probably already know it’s like an open-air museum. But as a local Italian and a very experienced traveler, I have a few travel tips for Florence you won’t necessarily find in the guidebooks.
A number of attractions in Florence require advanced bookings – here’s an overview of the tickets you should get before your trip
From lesser-known tidbits to essential prep advice, here are the best Florence travel tips that will help you planning your trip to Florence and have a wonderful time there.
15 Must-Read Florence Travel Tips
Decide on the best time to visit Florence
Figuring out the best time to visit Florence isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. As I have said before, I’ve been there more times than I can count, in all sorts of weather, so here’s my take on it.
Florence generally enjoys pleasant weather throughout much of the year, though it can be a bit colder and drearier in the winter months. If you’re considering a trip in December or January (outside of the busy Christmas season), you might find the city much quieter than the summer rush.
Florence’s peak tourist season runs from late May through August. During these months, expect large crowds, longer waits at popular attractions, and higher prices for accommodations.
If possible, I recommend avoiding Florence in the summer, especially in August, when temperatures often soar to around 32°C (90°F). Though I must say it was really hot when I visited in May a couple of years ago too! Plus, many locals leave the city for their holidays in August, so you’ll notice the streets are filled mostly with fellow tourists.
In general, my personal favorite time to visit Florence is April – the first half of the month. The weather is pleasant, and while there are tourists around, it’s not impossibly crowded as it gets in the summer months.
If you’d like to know a bit more about weather, seasons, and holidays all over Italy, make sure to read my post, When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Italy?
Plan how to get to your accommodation in Florence
Florence is easy to reach whether you’re traveling by train or flying in, thanks to its excellent connections to other Italian cities and European destinations.
By Train
The main station, Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), is where you should get off if you are getting to Florence by train. It’s centrally located near major attractions, making it a great base for your stay. My friend and I stayed nearby at Hotel Croce di Malta, which made everything super convenient.
If you have heavy luggage or are staying further out, consider a taxi or bus, as Uber isn’t available here. I suggest booking tickets on Trenitalia or Italo websites a couple of weeks in advance for the best deals. Just remember, if you take a Regionale train, you’ll need to validate your ticket at the yellow machines before boarding.
Travel times to Florence from major cities:
From the airport
Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport is a smaller airport mainly serving domestic and European flights. If you arrive from another continent, you’ll likely connect through a larger European city first.
Once you land, getting to the city center is simple. You can take an airport shuttle bus directly to the heart of Florence or hop on the Tramvia tram for a quick ride into town.
Taxis are also readily available outside the terminal. They offer a flat-rate fare to the center, which is convenient if you have a lot of luggage or prefer door-to-door service.
Another option is to fly into Pisa’s Galileo Galilei Airport, which handles more international routes and budget flights. From Pisa, you can easily catch a train to Florence – so it is a valid alternative. In fact, that’s what I did last time I visited as there were no direct flights from my hometown to Florence.
One of my best Florence travel tips If you don’t feel like planning and coordinating transportation from the airport, you can always organize a private transfer service ahead of time. This Florence: Airport to Hotel Private Transfer from the Florence airport is a great option. It’s a short drive, but super convenient because it’ll take you right to your accommodation.
If you’re traveling to Florence by car, check out my article How To Master Toll Roads In Italy. The toll roads in Italy, called autostrade italiane, connect major cities and tourist destinations to one another.
Give yourself enough time to explore
Florence is a city that truly deserves more than a quick day trip. With its incredible art galleries, historic sites, and charming streets, there’s so much to take in. One of my Florence travel tips is to plan to stay at least two to three days to fully appreciate what the city has to offer.
If you’re an art lover, set aside enough time to explore world-famous galleries like the Uffizi and Accademia and dedicate a day to the Duomo complex. Remember that the Cathedral is free to enter, which often means long lines, so plan accordingly. You’ll have to get tickets in advance for the Brunelleschi Dome and Giotto Bell Tower.
If you’re pressed for time, start your days early to beat the crowds at the main attractions and wander the quieter streets of the historic center before they fill up with visitors. On a recent trip, my friend and I went out at dawn to enjoy the empty streets and take photos!
In addition to the iconic Accademia Gallery, Duomo Complex, and Uffizi Gallery, these are some other popular sights in Florence you shouldn’t miss:
- Ponte Vecchio: Florence’s most famous bridge, lined with jewelry shops and offering picturesque views over the Arno River.
- Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens: A grand palace with several museums and galleries, along with beautifully landscaped gardens that provide a peaceful escape.
- Piazza della Signoria: A lively square surrounded by historic buildings, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city’s atmosphere.
- Santa Croce Basilica: A beautiful church that houses the tombs of famous Italians like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
- San Lorenzo Market: A bustling market where you can shop for leather goods and souvenirs and enjoy delicious local food.
If you’re just visiting on a day trip, it’s easy to miss some of the best tourist sights. You won’t regret having a few days extra to explore the city.
Pre-book the popular Florence attractions – one of the most useful Florence travel tips
One of the best Florence travel tips I can give you when you decide to travel to Florence is to reserve your tickets ahead of time for all major Florence attractions—museums, palaces, and even certain churches.
If you want to see masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia or the incredible collections at the Galleria degli Uffizi, get your tickets online at least a few weeks before you arrive, especially if you’re visiting in peak seasons. Otherwise, you could find yourself wasting hours in line, eating up valuable time you could spend exploring the city.
Florence is a popular destination, drawing millions of visitors each year, which makes it essential to plan. Imagine arriving and finding out that the spots you’ve dreamed of visiting are fully booked—that’s a situation you definitely want to avoid. By booking in advance, you can make sure you get to see all the highlights without having to wait in line.
You can book tickets on the official website of the attraction or through third-party booking sites. You can also choose between guided tours or simply skip-the-line tickets. For basic entry, here are some tickets you really need to get ahead of your visit:
- Uffizi Gallery: Priority Entrance Ticket
- Accademia Gallery: Priority Entrance Ticket
- Palazzo Vecchio and Arnolfo Tower Entry Ticket + Video Guide
- Palazzo Pitti & Palatine Gallery Skip the Line – You can get the audio guide for an additional fee upon check-in.
- City Pass with Uffizi, Cupola, Cathedral, and More – This is an all-inclusive option that includes entry to several places around Florence. You can choose which museums and attractions you add on, and it’s very convenient to use.
For a truly special experience, I also recommend this Alone in the Duomo tour with Dome Climb and private access to the terraces. I took the tour myself last time I was in Florence and seeing the sunset from the terraces and being alone in the Duomo was magical!
Prepare for a lot of walking (and climbing)
Florence’s historic center is quite compact, making it easy to move from one place to the next. To make the most of your time, I recommend planning your itinerary so you’re visiting attractions close to each other on the same day. This way, you’ll save time and energy and explore more of what the city has to offer.
For example, here are a few mini-itineraries to consider:
- Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Repubblica: Start with a visit to the Florence Cathedral and climb the Dome for stunning views. Then, walk a few minutes to Piazza della Repubblica for a coffee break in one of the historic cafés.
- Ponte Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti: Begin by exploring the famous Ponte Vecchio, and then continue across the river to Palazzo Pitti and the beautiful Boboli Gardens.
- Piazza della Signoria to the Uffizi Gallery: Visit the open-air sculptures in Piazza della Signoria and then head next door to the Uffizi Gallery to admire its incredible art collection.
I’ve said before that Florence is like an open-air museum. And one of the best ways to experience it is on foot.
Wandering down the narrow streets, surrounded by stunning Medieval and Renaissance buildings, is an experience in itself.
You’ll be on your feet a lot, so I have two more travel tips for Florence for you: make sure to bring comfortable shoes! A refillable water bottle is also a must—there are plenty of public fountains around the city where you can top up.
While walking is the ideal way to see Florence, you can also hop on a bus, rent a bike, or use an e-scooter to get around if you want a break from all the walking.
Look beyond the touristy spots
Florence is famous for its iconic sights, but when you travel to Florence there are also a few hidden treasures worth checking out.
On our way to the train station from the hotel just as we were leaving the city, my friend and I happened to find the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy, which quickly became one of the highlights of our trip. Dating back to 1612, this historic shop offers a variety of unique items, such as handmade lotions, soaps, and perfumes. It’s a lovely place to visit (and shop!).
Another great place to escape the crowds is the Bardini Gardens. It’s less busy than the Boboli Gardens nearby, but with equally beautiful views and peaceful terraced greenery.
You might also want to visit the Brancacci Chapel in the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine, home to remarkable frescoes by Masaccio that are often missed by visitors.
These lesser-known spots will help you discover a different side of Florence, offering a more authentic and relaxed experience.
Especially lesser-known museums
While you’re exploring Florence beyond the typical tourist trails, don’t miss out on some of the city’s smaller, lesser-known museums that offer incredible insights and experiences. These museums provide a quieter, more intimate look at Florence’s rich history and art, without the massive crowds you’ll find at the Uffizi or Accademia.
Consider visiting the Museo Horne, a cozy museum housed in a Renaissance palace that features a unique collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture curated by the English collector Herbert Horne.
Or, explore the Bargello Museum, known for its impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures by masters like Donatello and Michelangelo but still often overlooked by many tourists.
These smaller museums give you the chance to take your time, appreciate the details, and enjoy a more personal connection to Florence’s artistic heritage.
Step over to the other side of the Arno
Here’s another of my top Florence travel tips. To explore a slightly different side of Florence, make your way to the Oltrarno neighborhood, which means “beyond the Arno.”
This area, just a short walk over the historic Ponte Vecchio, offers a bit of a break from the city’s busiest spots while still being accessible and full of charm. Here, you’ll find local cafes, inviting wine bars, and a variety of antique shops to explore.
While the Oltrarno isn’t entirely off the tourist map, it has a more laid-back vibe than the city center. In the San Frediano district, creative workshops and local artisans bring fresh energy to the area.
Don’t miss the Palazzo Pitti – the former Medici residence – and the Boboli Gardens, where paths wind through beautifully landscaped grounds. It’s a great place to enjoy a slightly quieter side of Florence without feeling too far from the action.
To appreciate the Oltrarno District and everything it has to offer, you should consider this Tastes and Traditions of Florence: Food Tour with Sant’Ambrogio Market Visit. I took the tour last time I visited Florence and our guide Leonardo was exceptional. We saw (and learned about) the Buchette del Vino – little holes in the wall where traditionally you could get wine.
Make time for a day trip
As you may know already, Florence is the capital of Tuscany. When you leave Florence, you’ll enter the beautiful Tuscan countryside, filled with vineyards, olive groves, and charming farmhouses known as poderi.
Tuscany (one of Italy’s 20 regions) is full of medieval towns, each with its own narrow streets and stunning views to discover. There’s no question that you should try to spend some time out in the countryside when visiting Florence.
One great day trip is to the Chianti area, famous for its small villages and countless vineyards where you can enjoy wine tasting. If you head north, Bologna is less than an hour away by train and offers a lively mix of art, history, and true Italian culture – not to mention delicious food.
To the south, Siena is another beautiful destination, though it can get busy depending on when you go, together with Val d’Orcia. San Gimignano is a popular day-trip destination. Pisa and Lucca are also close by and perfect for a quick visit.
If you’re up for a longer journey, consider taking a day trip to Cinque Terre in the neighboriing Liguria. While the famous coastal villages of the Cinque Terre are worth more than just a day, it’s still doable — a train ride from Florence takes around three hours.
For a closer excursion, Fiesole is a fantastic option. Just 20 minutes by car or reachable by ATAF bus 7, this hilltop town offers unique archaeological sites and breathtaking views of Florence below.
If you don’t want to deal with transportation and navigating around Italy, you can also look into different tours from Florence to nearby towns and villages. There are usually tons of tours and day trips to the more touristy places, like Cinque Terre.
For example, this Cinque Terre and Pisa Day Trip is one of the most popular tours you can book online. The tour lasts around 12-13 hours, so it’s a long day, but it might be a good option if you don’t have more time to dedicate to the two destinations. It’s also very well organized, so you don’t really have to worry about anything.
Beware of the tourist traps (including gelato)
Did you know that Florence is the birthplace of gelato as we know it today? The exact origin is a little controversial. Many believe Bernardo Buontalenti invented it by adding milk, honey, and eggs to sorbetto, creating the famous “crema buontalenti” flavor. Others credit Cosimo Ruggeri, who supposedly made it for Catherine de Medici.
Naturally, you’ll want to indulge in gelato while exploring Florence. But here’s the catch — not all gelato in Florence is created equal. I’ve traveled across Italy, and Florence is one of the few places where I’ve seen those eye-catching, sky-high mounds of gelato sticking out of their containers.
It may look impressive, but it’s just a tourist trap. The quality is usually subpar, loaded with artificial flavors and colors, and far from the authentic gelato experience you can have in traditional places. Stick to places where the gelato is stored in covered metal containers, indicating it’s made fresh.
When choosing flavors, go for the classics like pistachio, nocciola (hazelnut), or fiordilatte (a simple yet delicious milk-based flavor). If you’re looking for a standout spot in Florence, try Perchè No! on Via Dei Tavolini, serving up authentic gelato since 1939, or Vivoli, which became a famous spot among tourists thanks to their delicious affogato al caffé.
And it’s not just the gelato you need to watch out for. There are some other scams all around Italy. Be cautious of the street vendors selling “authentic” leather goods at unbelievably low prices. Florence is famous for its leather, but genuine items come with a price.
Many of these vendors are selling low-quality knockoffs. If you’re looking for a real leather souvenir, stick to reputable shops or markets like the San Lorenzo Market, where you can inspect the quality up close.
Budget for the tourist tax
Like many popular destinations in Italy, one thing you need to be aware when you travel to Florence is that the city has implemented a tourist tax, as has Rome and other cities. But don’t worry—it’s not a scam; it’s a standard practice and nothing to be concerned about.
This tax will be collected at your accommodation, and the amount can vary depending on where you stay. Hostels, hotels, Airbnbs, and even campgrounds will ask for this fee.
Some accommodations might include the tax in your total room charge, while others may ask you to pay it in cash when you check in or out.
The cost is generally between €3 and €4 per night for each guest over the age of 12, depending on the type of accommodation. Keep in mind that this fee is only applied for a maximum of 7 consecutive nights, so you won’t be charged indefinitely!
Enjoy the city from above
You don’t have to go far to experience Florence from a new perspective—just head up to one of the city’s many rooftop bars. With its one-of-a-kind skyline and romantic vibe, there are plenty of rooftop terraces to choose from.
The Grand Hotel Minerva is a fantastic choice for an aperitivo with a view. Located in the heart of the city, its terrace offers a 360-degree view, including a beautiful backdrop of Florence’s Cathedral. The space is divided into various sections, including a rooftop pool area exclusive to hotel guests.
For a more upscale experience, try Sesto on Arno. My friend and I visited for sunset and loved it. This rooftop bar and restaurant is perfect for sunset drinks or a leisurely meal. With options ranging from a glass of wine to unique cocktails, it’s a great spot to sip something special while the sun goes down.
Keep in mind that there is a smart-casual dress code, and reservations are advisable, particularly on weekends. Also, be ready to splurge—cocktails start at €20.
There are also plenty of attractions that allow to see Florence from above – Brunelleschi Dome, Giotto Bell Tower and Arnolfo Tower all offer stunning views. And if you don’t wish to pay for the experience, just head to Piazzale Michelangelo, one of the best sunset spots in the city.
Make reservations for dinner
This is one of the biggest Florence travel tips I have, especially if you have your heart set on dining at specific spots or visiting during the busy tourist season. During my visit with a friend, we often saw lines of people waiting outside restaurants because they hadn’t made a reservation. So, if you plan to book a table, keep a few things in mind.
Aperitivo time for Italians is typically between 7:00 pm and 8:30 pm.
We Italians don’t usually start dinner before 8:00 pm, especially in the summer. Dining late is quite common; you might even see people sitting down for a meal as late as 9:30 or 10:00 pm.
Most restaurants offer two seating times—one around 8:00 pm and another at 9:30 pm. If you know you’ll want to linger over your meal, go for the later slot so you don’t feel rushed or keep the next diners waiting!
Some places don’t accept reservations at all. In those cases, it’s best to arrive right when they open to secure a spot or head over later in the evening. Often, they’ll let you add your name to a waiting list and give an estimated wait time, allowing you to wander around or enjoy a drink nearby while waiting for your table.
If you’re eating out in Italy (and I assume you are at some point), you must read my article, Tipping In Italy: The Ultimate Guide From A Local. Tipping culture isn’t as big in Italy and most of Europe as it is in other places.
Join a food tour in Florence – one of my top Florence travel tips
If you’re a foodie, joining a local food tour is one of the best ways to sample Florence’s culinary scene. Last time I was there a few months ago I actually joined two, and loved them both!
These tours give you the chance to explore the city’s markets, sample traditional dishes, and learn about the local ingredients and cooking techniques that make Tuscan cuisine so special.
A good food tour will take you off the beaten path to small, family-run trattorie where you can try local pasta, hidden bakeries where you can buy fresh cantuccini cookies, and local wine shops that you might not find on your own.
You’ll get to taste a range of specialties like ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), pappa al pomodoro (a thick tomato and bread soup), bruschetta, lampredotto (one of Florence’s most famous street foods= and, of course, a variety of delicious local cheeses and cured meats. Most tours also include a stop (or more) for a glass of Chianti, the region’s famous wine.
It’s a fun way to experience Florence beyond the usual sightseeing and to meet other travelers and locals who share a passion for great food. Plus, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich food culture—and a full stomach.
As I said, on my last trip to Florence, I actually joined two food tours. One was the Oltrarno at Sunset Food and Wine Tour; the other was the Tastes and Traditions of Florence: Food Tour with Sant’Ambrogio Market Visit. Both tours were incredible – we had a guide, and the tastings were enough for a meal (and a half, I’d say) and we also tried lots of wine and learned about the city’s food culture.
If you aren’t from Italy, read my article, Common Misconceptions About Italian Food (From A Local). You shouldn’t come to Italy just to eat spaghetti bolognese and Caesar salad, because, surprise, they aren’t really Italian.
Embrace early afternoon closures
One of the best travel tips for Florence—and really, all of Italy—is to embrace the local siesta culture. Some shops, local restaurants (and this is your hint to restaurants you should avoid), and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon.
Shops and businesses usually close between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm; whereas restaurants will close after lunch service, typically around 3:00 pm. While this midday break might catch some tourists by surprise, it’s a well-loved tradition here.
Take this as your cue to slow down, find a cozy café, or enjoy a leisurely lunch (at Italian eating hours, between 1:00 and 2:30 pm). In the summer, it’s your chance to go back to your hotel during the hottest hours too.
Planning your day around this break also gives you a chance to experience the city like a local at a more relaxed and enjoyable pace.
Conclusions: Is Florence Worth Visiting?
So, is Florence worth visiting?
Florence is undoubtedly one of my favorite places in Italy, with its delicious cuisine, rich cultural and historical connections, and ties to famous artists. However, if it’s your first time visiting, there are a few things that might catch you by surprise.
Maybe you think a day is enough to see all of Florence, or you haven’t planned how to get from the airport to your accommodation. While these won’t ruin your trip, small hiccups can be easily avoided with some key Florence travel tips.
Hopefully, this list has helped prepare you to make the most of your time in Italy. With a bit of planning and an open mind, you’re sure to enjoy every moment in this incredible city.
Further Readings
Traveling to Tuscany soon? These posts are a must-read:
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Claudia Tavani
Claudia Tavani was born and raised in Sardinia, and after moving between the United States and the United Kingdom, she's now back living in her hometown, Cagliari. She's a travel blogger and certified travel designer who loves planning trips and publishing guides, travel tips, and packing lists so that you don't have to. Owner of Strictly Italy, cat mom to Minnie. Loves pizza, hiking, archeology, cities, beaches, swimming, and running. Hates peppers.